EDMONTON, AB – Maninder Dhaliwal, the alleged leader of a criminal organization responsible for a series of extortions, arson attempts, and shootings in Edmonton, has been arrested in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The arrest follows a Canada-wide warrant issued more than six months ago, which was part of a broader investigation into the violent criminal activities.
Dhaliwal is accused of organizing extortion schemes that targeted South Asian homebuilders in Edmonton as part of a criminal group involved in over 40 incidents, including arson, attempted fires, and shootings since 2023. The arrest marks a significant milestone in Project Gaslight, an ongoing investigation by the Edmonton Police Service (EPS).
Former EPS officer and current NorQuest College justice studies chair, Dan Jones, expressed his support for the arrest, praising the international law enforcement cooperation that led to Dhaliwal’s apprehension. He described the situation as particularly concerning for local businesses and residents who were fearful of retaliation, and emphasized the bravery it took for victims to come forward.
Despite the success of the arrest, the next challenge will be securing Dhaliwal’s extradition to Canada. However, a potential obstacle is the absence of an extradition treaty between Canada and the UAE, making the process more complicated.
British Columbia’s former public safety minister, Kash Heed, called the arrest “very good news,” noting the decrease in similar extortion attempts in the province. While EPS has not linked these incidents to those in other regions, the arrest remains a critical moment in addressing organized crime across Canada.
Five of the six individuals arrested in connection to Project Gaslight last summer are scheduled to appear in court this week as the investigation continues.
